As a copy editor with experience in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), it is important to understand the rules of subject-verb agreement. In writing, it is essential to use proper grammar to effectively communicate the intended message. When it comes to subject-verb agreement, there are specific guidelines that must be followed to ensure clarity and accuracy. In this article, we will outline the rules of subject-verb agreement.
1. Singular subjects require singular verbs, and plural subjects require plural verbs.
Example: The dog barks loudly. (singular subject and singular verb)
Example: The dogs bark loudly. (plural subject and plural verb)
2. When a singular subject is joined by “and” with another noun or pronoun, the verb should be plural.
Example: The dog and the cat are sleeping. (plural verb)
3. When a singular subject is joined by “or” or “nor” with another noun or pronoun, the verb should agree with the closest subject.
Example: Either the cat or the dogs are responsible for the mess. (plural verb)
4. When the subjects in a sentence are of different numbers (singular and plural), the verb should agree with the closest subject.
Example: The manager, along with his employees, is working hard. (singular verb)
5. Collective nouns (group, team, committee, etc.) are usually singular, but they can take a plural verb if the members are considered individually.
Example: The team is playing well. (singular verb)
Example: The team are arguing among themselves. (plural verb)
6. Indefinite pronouns (anyone, someone, everyone, nobody, etc.) are usually singular, but they can take a plural verb if they are referring to multiple people.
Example: Everyone has their own opinion. (singular verb)
Example: Everyone brought their own food. (plural verb)
7. When a sentence begins with “there” or “here,” the verb agrees with the following subject.
Example: There are many birds in the sky. (plural verb)
8. Titles of books, movies, and other works take singular verbs.
Example: “The Great Gatsby” is a classic novel. (singular verb)
9. Singular verbs are used with singular nouns that represent a group of people or things.
Example: The crowd was excited. (singular verb)
10. Distances, periods of time, and amounts of money take singular verbs.
Example: Two miles is a long distance. (singular verb)
Example: Five dollars is all I have. (singular verb)
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of grammar in writing. As a copy editor, it is essential to ensure that the rules of subject-verb agreement are followed to effectively communicate the intended message. By adhering to these guidelines, writers can create clear and concise content that is easy to understand.